Ambassadors

Alan Titchmarsh

We are delighted that Alan Titchmarsh is an Ambassador for RSST.

Alan has been a well-known and much-loved television presenter for many years and we are thrilled that he has joined the RSST team!

“In the UK we are privileged to have beautiful countryside and a rich and diverse ecology. I have always been particularly fond of our native red squirrels – they are gentle and curious creatures, and fascinating to observe. I often see them on the Isle of Wight, where I spend a good deal of time these days; the island’s woodlands have a population of several thousand reds.

Sadly the UK red squirrel has for some time been seriously threatened by the American Grey squirrel, an invasive species introduced into the UK over 100 years ago. However, there have been encouraging signs recently that, with the right support, red squirrels can fight back. The Red Squirrel Survival Trust are at the centre of efforts to help red squirrel populations to stabilise, and ultimately grow.

I am delighted to become an Ambassador for the Red Squirrel Survival Trust, and I am proud to be helping to raise awareness of the plight of the UK red squirrel. With your help, the Red Squirrel Survival Trust can help to protect our red squirrels from extinction.”

Eric Robson

Eric Robson is best known as a presenter and Chairman of Gardener’s Question Time. He has also presented much-loved TV series such as Great Railway Journeys of the World. He has lived in Cumbria all his life, has a sheep farm and has written books relating to rural matters.

“I am delighted to be an Ambassador for RSST. The red squirrel sits at the very centre of tourism in Cumbria. If we can re-establish it in its traditional habitats in Cumbria it will not only be an environmental triumph but will also provide a measurable boost to the county’s biggest industry.Together we’ll get Squirrel Nutkin back where he belongs!”

Sir Chris Bonington

Photo courtesy of Sarah McNeil.

Sir Chris Bonington is a world-renowened mountaineer, writer and photographer. He has been on no fewer than 19 expeditions to the Himalayas, including 4 to Mount Everest. He was knighted in 1996 for his services to the sport and was appointed Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) in the Birthday Honours List.

“Though saving our native red squirrel is a real challenge, I firmly believe it is achievable. Red squirrels are facing their own Everest.”

Katie Hillier

Photo courtesy of the British Fashion Council.

Katie’s high profile work in the fashion industry brings a new dimension to our celebrity team. Her growing list of awards include Accessory Designer of the Year at The British Fashion Awards in 2009. Her much sought after range of unique animal “paper clip” pendants, a blog on Vogue magazine and recently becoming the “face” of Hunter Wellingtons make her extremely busy but she is adamant she will find the time to help in the fight to save our native red squirrel.

“I am very fond of the red squirrel – such charming little creatures sadly in vast decline… It is vitally important that we make every effort we can to protect and preserve this wonderful creature for future generations to enjoy”.